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Published on October 10, 2007

Researchers from the National Materials Technology Centre (MTEC) have been named this year's Outstanding Technologists in a contest run by the Foundation for the Promotion of Science and Technology under the patronage of His Majesty the King.

Professor Dr Pramote Dechaumphai, the chief of Computational Technology Group for Analysis and Design in Engineering at MTEC, a centre under the National Science and Technology Development Agency, said his team has been developing computational technology for engineering analysis and design for several years. The group pulled away from MTEC to become an independent unit early this year.

The development is based on four main subjects, namely advanced mathematics, computational methods, computer programming and colour graphics. The process is to combine all these subjects to simulate graphics for engineering analysis.

The team won for coming up with technology for engineering analysis and design, which will help industrial sectors to cut costs, not just in terms of investment but also on time and resources.

"Last year, the team's research helped the country save Bt1 billion. Not only does Thailand save a lot on imports, the research also helps prolong the shelf-life of products," Pramote explained.

For instance, the team came up with new ways of ventilating computers and houses as well as new materials for shopping baskets and toilet seats.

"We have integrated the four main subjects to come up with the right model and the right material to help develop the best product with the best feature and function. For example, we've helped bus manufacturers test the vehicles on different types of road conditions to discover exactly what effect they have on the vehicle's engineering. The result can be used to find suitable materials for development," said Pramote.

Meanwhile, Associate Professor Dr Piyawat Phankosol also won an award for finding ways to cheaply produce dentures and artificial human organs.

His research has found ways to craft dentures for poor people in rural areas, saving the country millions in import costs. Piyawat has come up with a mobile operation and laboratory unit, which can be used to offer dentures for poor people in many provinces. Apart from that, he has also developed artificial body parts such as ears, hands, fingers, noses and eyes to help affected people.

In addition, Dr Kitikorn Charmondusit from the Faculty of Environment and Resources Study at Mahidol University, and Dr Surapich Loykulnant from MTEC have also won the New Generation of Technologist 2007 awards.

Dr Kitikorn won for finding ways to enhance the strength of polysheeting used in the armour industry, while Dr Surapich won for improving the quality of rubber.

The winners are scheduled to receive their awards from Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on October 18.

Asina Pornwasin

The Nation